Can the COVID-19 virus be transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy?

The COVID-19 virus can be transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy, but this form of transmission, known as vertical transmission, appears to be rare.

Some studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can be transmitted from mother to fetus in rare cases. For example, a study published in the journal "Nature Communications" documented cases of neonatal SARS-CoV-2 infection, indicating that intrauterine transmission is possible.

The virus can infect the placenta and reach the fetus. However, this is not often the case, and many pregnant women with COVID-19 give birth to babies without signs of infection. In addition to intrauterine transmission, newborns can also be infected during delivery or shortly thereafter through close contact with the mother or other infected persons.

When transmission occurs, infected newborns may show symptoms such as respiratory problems, fever, and gastrointestinal symptoms. However, the majority of infants appear to experience milder or asymptomatic cases of COVID-19.

Pregnant women are encouraged to get vaccinated against COVID-19, as vaccines have been shown to be effective and safe for both the mother and the fetus. Vaccination can also help pass antibodies across the placenta to the fetus, providing some protection after birth.

Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-17436-6

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-05-02 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024